The Art of Hiking - Hiking Alabama: A Guide to the State's Greatest Hiking Adventures - page 465

looking for in terms of function. Buy only what you need. You will, don't forget,
be carrying what you've bought on your back. Here are some things to keep in
mind before you go shopping.
Clothes. Clothing is your armor against Mother Nature's little surprises. Hikers
should be prepared for any possibility, especially when hiking in mountainous
areas. Adequate rain protection and extra layers of clothing are a good idea. In
summer, a wide-brimmed hat can help keep the sun at bay. In the winter months
the first layer you'll want to wear is a “wicking” layer of long underwear that
keeps perspiration away from your skin. Wear long underwear made from synthet-
ic fibers that wick moisture away from the skin and draw it toward the next layer
of clothing, where it then evaporates. Avoid wearing long underwear made of cot-
ton as it is slow to dry and keeps moisture next to your skin.
The second layer you'll wear is the “insulating” layer. Aside from keeping you
warm, this layer needs to “breathe” so you stay dry while hiking. A fabric that
provides insulation and dries quickly is fleece. It's interesting to note that this one-
of-a-kind fabric is made out of recycled plastic. Purchasing a zip-up jacket made
of this material is highly recommended.
The last line of layering defense is the “shell” layer. You'll need some type of
waterproof, windproof, breathable jacket that will fit over all of your other layers.
It should have a large hood that fits over a hat. You'll also need a good pair of rain
pants made from a similar waterproof, breathable fabric. Some Gore-Tex jackets
cost as much as $500, but you should know that there are more affordable fabrics
out there that work just as well.
Now that you've learned the basics of layering, you can't forget to protect your
hands and face. In cold, windy, or rainy weather you'll need a hat made of wool or
fleece and insulated, waterproof gloves that will keep your hands warm and
toasty. As mentioned earlier, buying an additional pair of light silk liners to wear
under your regular gloves is a good idea.
Footwear. If you have any extra money to spend on your trip, put that money
into boots or trail shoes. Poor shoes will bring a hike to a halt faster than anything
else. To avoid this annoyance, buy shoes that provide support and are lightweight
and flexible. A lightweight hiking boot is better than a heavy, leather mountain-